Legal bid hits booze plans

LEGAL action by the drinks 
industry could lead to the ban on cut-price alcohol in Scotland being delayed for two years.

Government officials fear that even if they win the court battle with the Scotch Whisky Association the flagship policy may not be introduced until 2015, instead of April next year as planned.

Minimum pricing was overwhelmingly passed by MSPs in May on the basis of setting a minimum price of 50p per unit.

An initial court hearing has been set for October, but a lengthy appeals procedure could delay a final ruling.